Beautifully arranged potted plants add an eye catching focal point to any area in your garden. Making them yourself is not as difficult as you may think and is very rewarding. The most important thing is to make sure all the flowers and plants in the container require the same care, sunlight, soil and water. Otherwise there is a chance one will not survive, leaving an empty space where flowers should be growing. Read the directions on the plant marker or ask the knowledgeable greenhouse personnel for suggestions.
If your flower is root bound gently open the bottom with a blade or your finger tip before planting. This will permit the plant to better absorb water and minerals. The mantra for a successful flower display is “Thriller, Filler, Spiller”.
The ‘thriller’ is the plant in the center of the pot that adds height and interest. Usually this is a tall spike such as Dracaena (dra-SEE-na) with can be green or purple, or some type of ornamental grass.
The ‘filler’ is the flower around the center of the pot which is the most dramatic color. You can use more than one color flower if you wish. It’s your creation so have fun with it. Remember you want to see all the flowers so they should all grow to the same height or one will crowd out the others by midsummer.
The ‘spiller’ will grow over the pot and give the entire container a fuller appearance. Many folks use variegated vinca, ivy or asparagus fern for this. If you have plenty of sun hanging geraniums, also known as ‘ivy geraniums’ will give your pot a knockout punch. Although directions may say plant 6 to 8 inches apart, you want your pot to look like it is full immediately, so place plants much (above) President of The Rahway Garden Club, James Keane has been researching and answering garden questions since 1995. Visit ‘Keane Gardener’ blog at: keanegardener.blogspot.com closer together. This ‘British’ technique works wonderfully in containers.
Proper watering is essential for potted plants to survive. If your pot is on the ground it should be watered every day. If it is hanging, monitor it daily as it may need more frequent watering. On hot summer days it may need to be watered twice. When creating your containers you are only limited by plant requirements and your imagination.
Please support our local farms, greenhouses and supply stores. They have the largest and best tended plants to choose from and depend on our seasonal business.
Safe & Happy Gardening,
James
(above) President of The Rahway Garden Club, James Keane has been researching and answering garden questions since 1995. Visit ‘Keane Gardener’ blog at: keanegardener.blogspot.com
